In these tough economic times everyone is looking for ways to save money. One of the best ways is to make great crafts that can be used as gifts. Not only will you save considerable money but think about the reaction of your gift recipient when they get that gift they know was made especially for them. Both family and friends will be charmed with a winter craft made by you or your child that shows them how much you appreciate their presence in your life this holiday season. Best of all you can create fun memories crafting with your family and then giving the results as gifts. Here are some winter crafts that make great gifts-
Snowman Mug-Keep in mind that once the paints are completely dry, your project is dishwasher safe, microwave and ovenproof. However it is critical that you allow the mug to cure (sit) for at least 10 days after you have finished painting before using it.
What you will need:
- Ceramic mug-a dark color like blue, black or green would be nice so the Snowman shows up against the background. Also, the taller the mug, the easier it will be to fit your snowman on it.
- White permanent paint (make sure the brand you use will work on a ceramic mug)
- Black permanent paint
- Optional accent color paint (red, blue, etc for hat, scarf, mittens or whatever other accents your child wants to add to their snowman)
- Paint conditioner (to set the paint)
- Kitchen sponge (yes, just the ordinary cheap kind)
- Scissors
- Paintbrush
- Optional – q-tips
Instructions for the project: Thoroughly wash your hands and the mug with soap and water. Dry completely. Apply the paint conditioner to the outside of the mug with a paintbrush. Let it dry naturally (no blow drying). Keep in mind that you will only need the surface conditioner where you will be painting, so if you want to be frugal, just apply it to the “front” of the mug where you plan to put the snowman. While the paint conditioner is drying, cut the kitchen sponge into a round (snowball) shape with your scissors. It is recommended that you make a two ball snowman so it fits on your mug. Pour some of the white paint out onto a paper plate. Dip the round sponge into the paint and dab it about so it is completely covered. Dab off a bit onto a paper towel so it is not too gooey. Sponge paint a circle onto your mug. Sponge paint a second circle onto your mug, just above the first. You can then dip your q-tip into the white paint left on the plate and dab it here and there onto the mug to look like snowflakes. Let the white paint dry naturally. Dip your paintbrush (or a q-tip) into the black paint and dab on two black eyes and a black mouth. You can also practice dotting on a scrap of paper before you do it on the cup so you can see how hard you have to press. Dab on some black buttons. You can also draw some twig arms if you are using a paintbrush.
Optional: If you are feeling really creative, you can add a hat, mittens at the end of the twig arms and a scarf using your accent color.